Penis Curvature Correction

As the male organ develops in its early stages, sometimes the penile tissue develops off-center instead of presenting as a straight appendage. Penis curvature is a very common condition that can occur anywhere along the penile shaft and will deviate in any direction including up, down, and even sideways; a condition called a lateral curvature. Penis curvature that results from a congenital defect usually presents in a downward angle, also known as chordee, and is usually caused by scar tissue on the underside of the penis.

Lateral Curvature

Lateral curvature is usually the result of a disparity in the lengths of the erectile tendons with the penis naturally curving toward the shorter side. Either the lateral or chordee presentations of penile curvature are usually congenital, meaning males are born with this particular condition.

However, a curvature of the penis can also develop over time in a condition known as acquired curvature. In many cases, acquired penis curvature may be caused by a malady known as Peyronie’s disease. Peyronie’s disease results in a mass of scar tissue forming on the outer lining of the components responsible for an erection.

During an erection affected by this condition, the resultant scar tissue limits expansion of the penis causing a curvature. Acquired penile curvature can also be the result of injury or sudden shock to the penis. Symptoms include thickening along the shaft, a bent profile, pain during an erection, and the inability to maintain an erection.

Correction of Curvature

The correction of either a congenital or acquired penile curvature often involves a surgical procedure. Corrective surgeries for penile curvature vary widely from patient to patient and depend largely on factors such as genetics and medical history. However, surgery usually involves removing the scar tissue or shortening the unaffected side in order to bring the phallus into balance. Sometimes the corrective procedure itself may cause shortening of the penis. In these cases, a lengthening and widening surgery can be performed in conjunction with a curvature correction.